Issue and Opponent: The Chamber of Commerce had long denied engaging with climate issues and encouraging its members to implement more sustainable practices. The foreclosure crisis exacerbated these issues.
Dilemma Action: The Yes Men decided to impersonate U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donohue” at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., and announce a U-turn in policy that would focus on climate change policy. They were unable to finish the announcement when they were interrupted by Eric Wohlschlegel — head of P.R. rep for the (real) Chamber. His interruption ensured there was even greater coverage of the event.
Outcomes: The Chamber filed a lawsuit against the Yes Men for “misleading” the public, which allowed the Yes Men to point out that this was an ironic accusation given how badly the Chamber misleads the public daily. Eventually, they withdrew the lawsuit, leading the Yes Men to ask them to reinstate it because it was giving them such an excellent opportunity to refute their “silly claims.” The Yes Men have an ongoing climate action campaign.